Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry

The secret to a wok dish is 'wok hei'—the breath of the wok. High heat caramelizes the tofu and veggies while keeping them crisp. This dish celebrates texture: crispy tofu meets crunchy vegetables in a savory sauce.
🕒 Prep Time 20 mins
🍳 Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 30 mins
🍽️ Servings 2 servings
🔥 Calories 340 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Asian

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Wok or Large Skillet.
  • Tofu Press (or heavy object).
  • Cutting Board, Knife.

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy
⚠️ Sesame

Instructions

1

Press tofu in paper towels with a weight for 15 mins. Cube into 1-inch pieces.

Tip: Removing water is crucial; wet tofu steams instead of searing.
2

Heat wok until smoking with a little oil. Fry tofu until golden brown. Remove.

Tip: For extra crispiness, toss tofu in cornstarch before frying.
3

Add more oil if needed. Stir-fry sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger for 30 seconds.

Tip: Keep moving them to prevent burning.
4

Add sliced pepper and zucchini. Stir-fry on high for 2-3 mins.

Tip: Veggies should remain crisp-tender (al dente).
5

Return tofu to pan. Add soy sauce and chili. Toss to coat.

Tip: Soy sauce caramelizes quickly in a hot wok.
6

Serve topped with sesame seeds. Great with steamed rice.

Tip: Sesame adds a nutty finish.

Recipe FAQ

I don't have a wok.
Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Get it very hot and don't overcrowd it.
Which oil?
High smoke point oils like sunflower, canola, or peanut. Extra virgin olive oil will burn.

Ingredients

  • 10.5 oz Firm Tofu
  • 3 cloves Garlic
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 0.35 oz Fresh Ginger
  • 1 medium Onion
  • 5 oz Red Bell Pepper
  • 5 oz Zucchini
  • 1 tbsp + 1 tsp Vegetable Oil
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder (or flakes)
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds